Sibling Relationships, Loneliness, and Social Support Among Siblings of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

Sibling relationships play a crucial role in shaping social and emotional development, yet their association with loneliness and perceived social support remains unclear. This study examined the dimensions of sibling relationships—rivalry, warmth, and conflict—and their relationship with loneliness and perceived social support. The findings indicate that maternal rivalry (M = 2.24, SD = 2.72) was perceived as higher than paternal rivalry (M = 1.54, SD = 2.48), suggesting greater differentiation in maternal treatment. Warmth dimensions, particularly intimacy (M = 15.82, SD = 2.70) and emotional support (M = 14.80, SD = 2.94), were rated higher compared to admiration and similarity, indicating that sibling bonds are largely characterized by closeness and support. Conflict was perceived at moderate levels, with antagonism (M = 16.62, SD = 2.40), competition (M = 17.48, SD = 2.43), and dominance (M = 15.98, SD = 3.42) showing notable variability among participants. Notably, loneliness (M = 53.10, SD = 6.17) exhibited minimal correlation with sibling relationship dimensions, suggesting that loneliness operates independently of sibling dynamics. Perceived social support was highest from family (M = 22.98, SD = 4.53), followed by significant others and friends, emphasizing the role of broader social networks in emotional support. These findings highlight the complexity of sibling interactions, where warmth and conflict coexist, and suggest that interventions targeting loneliness may need to focus beyond sibling relationships. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts of sibling dynamics and the influence of cultural factors on family relationships.